The ancient city of Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh is on the banks of the Shipra River. It is one of the oldest cities in India and is full of spiritual energy, mythology, and ageless allure. Every twelve years, Ujjain plays host to the Kumbh Mela, a sacred pilgrimage event that attracts millions of visitors and worshippers from all over the world. The city is revered as one of the Sapta Puri, or seven holy pilgrimage destinations in Hinduism. But there is a budding food culture in this city that is yet to be discovered!
If cities could taste, Ujjain would have the ideal combination of sour, spicy, and sweet flavours. The temples, ceremonies, and ghats of Ujjain, one of India's holiest cities, attract pilgrims, but if you ask any traveller what makes the trip worthwhile, they'll tell you it's the world-famous cuisine. From the morning bite of poha to the nightcap of milk shikanji, the city exemplifies how faith and flavour complement each other. Here is all the famous food in Ujjain!
What to eat in Ujjain
Kachori
You can't visit Ujjain and not try the kachoris and samosas. These fried treats, which can be loaded with spicy potato or lentil mixes, are sold everywhere. While enjoying these Ujjain street snacks with sour chutneys, you will be able to navigate the busy streets with ease.
What makes Ujjain's kachoris so special is how fresh they are. You can always count on a hot, crisp taste because the vendors make them in small amounts. Samosas, filled with potatoes and peas, are one of the most memorable Ujjain dishes because they go so well with masala chai on chilly evenings. Adventurers in the culinary arts will love this market because every vendor has their unique recipe. While some people prefer their kachoris with spicy chutneys, others place an emphasis on having the crust be just so. These snacks offer a taste of tradition in each bite and are an authentic part of the best Ujjain cuisine. This is one of the most famous food in Ujjain!
Where to try: We recommend Meghdoot Punjabi dhaba for a place with indoor seating with an old-fashioned charm. Ideal for all things North Indian! Or you can try Shree Ganga which offers a wide variety of savoury and sweet dishes, including chaats, South Indian specialities, burgers, desserts, and fusion dishes, all served with mouthwatering lassi and other refreshments.
Bhutte ka kees
During the monsoon season, bhutte ka kees becomes even more famous as a delicacy from Ujjain. Its heartwarming texture comes from the combination of grated corn, milk, and spices cooked together. There are few things as remarkable as this Ujjain speciality dish. The fact that it is so uncommon outside of Madhya Pradesh is what gives this meal its distinctive flavor. It is an irresistible treat because of the way the sweet maize flavour combines with the deep spices. As one of the most well-known dishes in Ujjain, it is more than simply food to the inhabitants; it is an integral element of their seasonal rituals. Now this Ujjain local food is a must try!
Where to try: Try this local delicacy at the famous Sarafa Market, which is one of the best Ujjain famous food places!
Poha
This is one of the most famous foods in Ujjain! The breakfast dish, poha from Ujjain, is the most prized possession. A dish that is both light and filling, made with flattened rice, onions, and mild spices, and topped with sev, coriander, and lemon. Many food lovers say this is the best food in Ujjain to start your morning. Crispy jalebis are the secret ingredient that sets Ujjain's poha apart. The locals love the sweet and savoury combo every morning, but newcomers may be surprised. The street food culture in Ujjain has a lighthearted side, and this pairing is a treasured custom that shows that. The poha here is supposedly unlike any other in India, according to several tourists. The liberal topping of sev and the freshness of the ingredients make it unique. Discover the top Ujjain eateries serving real poha near Tower Chowk, where the scent wafts across the morning air.
Where to try: This is a must-try at the stalls on Tower Chowk Street. You need to try this famous food in Ujjain at this crowd favourite restaurant!
Dal Bafla
Similar to the world-famous dal baati from Rajasthan, Dal Bafla is a culinary treasure of Ujjain. The traditional recipe for bafla calls for wheat dough balls to be boiled and baked. Once baked, they are rolled in ghee and served with hot dal. A traditional Ujjain dish, this hearty dish combines the nutty flavour of wheat with the richness of ghee.This Ujjain local food is a must-try! Dal Bafla differs from baati in texture, which is slightly softer. The natives of Ujjain make it a full platter by serving it with chutneys and pickles. This meal, which is frequently listed in Ujjain's renowned food lists, is a representation of the hearty and deep eating culture of Madhya Pradesh. There is no comfort food quite like hot dal Bafla. It is a common activity for families to partake in during celebrations and get-togethers. One of the nicest things to eat in Ujjain is dal Bafla, which gives tourists a taste of the city's famous friendliness.
Where to try: If you're looking for a restaurant that serves delicious, homey thalis, consider New Sudama or Damaru wala; they're both conveniently located near the Mahakaleshwar temple. The signage here is exclusively in Hindi, and the colour scheme is mostly white, red, and black.